In 2018, I was blessed to meet a bright-eyed pixie-cut brunette named Koral. She ran into my studio and pranced around with happy feet - sharing her sweetness with everyone - and as the class began, I knew she was wonderfully different from my other students.She fluttered around the studio and giggled with delight while giving her new friends the occasional loving squeeze. Since Koral was unique, I knew she'd require a different approach - I also didn't want to dim her bright spirit. The next few months with Koral were some of the most rewarding classes of my career. She was able to repeat everything I taught and knew the exact order of activities, sometimes gathering my props for me before we moved on. Her joyous spirit, sweet-natured energy, and love for learning were nothing short of "superpowers."

These superpowers were a beacon of light and inspired me to take the next step toward my long-term, professional goals. Children are like a puzzle, and I love piecing together their strengths, weaknesses and abilities to see the whole picture of each individual student. Teaching uniquely-abled children requires the same process with a few more pieces to their puzzle that work together a bit differently.

In 2019, I became certified to work with children who have learning differences and other special needs. The certification allowed me to take a leap of faith and start "Time to Shine" dance classes that are designed for the differently-abled dancer. These classes provide movement therapy along with tap, ballet, and jazz movements, and combined with their "superpowers," my students are able to express themselves artistically and in the most beautiful ways. "Time to Shine" dancers see growth in:

I have watched this class bring so much joy to children and these dancers have flourished developmentally, physically and socially. They’ve formed friendships, built confidence, and developed teamwork. Parents' lives were forever changed, too! One of my favorite things to do is peek in the lobby and experience the strong community of support that the families provide one another. I have big plans for these children, their families, and future students, and my mission is to:

• nourish a uniquely-abled child’s cognitive, physical, and emotional needs while providing social opportunities for them and their families. • create a safe environment filled with appropriate design, tools, equipment, and sensory toys that will aid in their dance and movement experience. • allow my “Time To Shine” dancers to attend classes at minimum or no cost.• provide a meeting & event space in Alamance County for special-needs groups.

To continue success and to share my love of dance with my current young dancers and their families, I will also use this space for my Miss Kim's Children's Dance program; however, I need your help to be up and running by the end of June! I've found a space in a bustling west-Burlington location off Church Street, and I am in the beginning stages of getting the interior classroom-ready. I would appreciate any and all contributions including:

• Monetary donations• Donations of classroom materials• Your services and special skills that could get me up and running

Dance is a universal language and can make anyone feel joyful, extraordinary and special - despite learning differences or other special needs. Everyone deserves their “time to shine,” especially those little superheroes whose bright spirits flutter into our lives and create a lifetime of inspiration. As a longtime resident of Alamance County and a teacher of 30 years, I truly feel that this program and future studio can make a big difference in our community. Please do not hesitate to contact me with questions.